Church Prepares to “Light the World” during Christmas . . . Again
Contributed By Camille West, ChurchofJesusChrist.org Church News
This December, “Light the World” theme (continued from 2016) encourages us to consider ways we can follow the Savior’s example and share His light with others during the Christmas season.
“As we follow the example of the Savior and live as He lived and as He taught, that light will burn within us and will light the way for others.” —President Thomas S. Monson
Related Links
This Christmas, the Church invites members worldwide to prayerfully consider how we can follow the Savior’s example and share the light of Jesus Christ with others during the Christmas season.
The “Light the World” theme—continuing from 2016—is inspired by President Thomas S. Monson’s words: “As we follow the example of the Savior and live as He lived and as He taught, that light will burn within us and will light the way for others” (“Be an Example and a Light,” Oct. 2015 general conference).
“This year’s Christmas initiative is sequel to last year’s, I suppose. I think it’s more accurate to say it’s a continuation,“ said Elder Brent H. Nielson, a General Authority Seventy and executive eirector of the Church's Missionary Department. “Last year, tens of thousands participated in #LIGHTtheWORLD service activities around the world. It was an inspiring thing to witness. We hope this year, thousands more will celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ by following His teachings and sharing His light and love with those around them.”
Serve 25 Ways. Over 25 Days
The month-long call to action to follow Christ’s example features “25 Ways. Over 25 Days.” Each day in December, mormon.org and the Church’s various social media pages will feature a teaching of the Savior.
2017 Poster for Light the World.
Resources for planning and sharing
As with previous years, the Church is providing an inspiring video—available Friday, November 24—to watch and share. The full video and website are available at Mormon.org in 29 languages. (Fijian, Mongolian, Samoan, and Tongan have only the video.)
Visit mormon.org/download now to see a preview video and to download resources and ideas for youth groups, ward councils, and families to use to help in planning activities, such as a calendar featuring principles of service, meetinghouse posters, and—new this year—a digital pass-along card your smart phone can air-drop to others.
During December, be sure to share your experiences on your social media channels using the hashtag #LightTheWorld, as Elder David A. Bednar said, “so that others can learn about the ‘good news’ of the Savior’s birth, His life, and His perfect Atonement for all mankind.” (Light the World, Ensign, Dec. 2016).
In 2016, thousands of Church members worldwide responded to the “Light the World” invitation by serving in their homes, at work, and in their communities in both grand and simple ways (see related story).
“With countless hours of service rendered during last year’s #LIGHTtheWORLD initiative, we are thrilled to once again invite everyone to share the light of the Savior throughout this Christmas season,” said Gary L. Crittenden, managing director of the Missionary Department.
Light the World calendar featuring a principle of service each day.
